For international flights from Korea, liquids, aerosols, and gels in carry-on baggage generally must be in containers of 100 ml or less and placed in one transparent 1 liter zip bag per person. Larger liquids should usually go in checked baggage unless an exception applies.
Quick Answer
Pack carry-on liquids in 100 ml or smaller containers inside a clear resealable 1 liter bag. Exceptions may apply for necessary medicine, baby food, special diet items, and properly sealed duty-free liquids, but you should bring supporting documents for medical liquids over 100 ml.
The Basic 100 ml Rule
Incheon Airport guidance states that liquids in containers of 100 ml or less are allowed if placed in a single 1 liter transparent ziplock bag per person for international flights. The container size matters, not just the amount left inside.
A half-empty 200 ml shampoo bottle can still be refused because the container is over 100 ml.
What Counts as a Liquid, Aerosol, or Gel
The rule can apply to:
- Water and drinks
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Lotion and cream
- Toothpaste
- Sunscreen
- Perfume
- Spray products
- Gel cosmetics
- Sauce-heavy foods
- Kimchi or liquid-preserved foods
If it spreads, sprays, pours, or gels, treat it as a liquid unless airport security says otherwise.
Medicine, Baby Food, and Special Diet Items
Incheon Airport guidance notes that liquid medicines exceeding 100 ml, such as insulin, require a doctor’s note or prescription in Korean or English. Baby food and special diet items may be allowed in quantities needed for the journey.
Keep these items separate and tell security staff before screening if needed.
Duty-Free Liquids
Duty-free liquids can be carried if sealed properly in a security tamper-evident bag with receipt according to airport rules. Do not open the sealed bag before reaching your final destination, especially if you have another security screening during transit.
If you have a connecting flight in another country, check that country’s transfer security rules too.
Packing Tips
Pack full-size toiletries in checked baggage. Keep only flight essentials in carry-on. Korea has convenience stores, pharmacies, and beauty shops everywhere, so you can buy replacement toiletries after arrival.
Use a reusable clear bag before leaving for the airport. Sorting liquids at security while people wait behind you is stressful and unnecessary.
FAQ
Can I bring a 150 ml bottle if it is half empty?
No. Security checks the container capacity, not only the remaining liquid.
Can I bring liquid medicine over 100 ml?
Necessary medicine may be allowed, but bring a doctor’s note or prescription in Korean or English.
Does the rule apply to domestic flights in Korea?
Rules can differ between domestic and international flights. Check your airport and airline guidance.
Can I bring kimchi in carry-on baggage?
Kimchi and sauce-heavy foods may be treated as liquids or restricted. Pack carefully in checked baggage if allowed, and check airline rules.